Lionel Messi scores a brace in his first start as Inter Miami thrash Atlanta United 4-0

Lionel Messi made his full debut for Inter Miami and scored two goals and provided an assist against Atlanta United on Tuesday.

After scoring a winner in the 94th minute against Cruz Azul, the Argentine was handed his first starting opportunity against and MLS club.

The World Cup winner did not waste any time and opened the scoring in the 8th minute. Sergio Busquets placed a long ball over the defence line to set up Messi’s chance. However, the shot struck the post, but Messi capitalised on the rebound.

Messi scored his second goal at 22nd minute mark after brilliant link up play with Taylor. The Argentine initiated the move running back at Atlanta’s defence before laying the ball to Taylor. He then crossed the ball into the box, and Messi made no mistake to score his second goal of the night.

Lionel Messi and Robert Taylor help Inter Miami to advance into League Cup knockouts

The 36-year-old was not done there, just before the half-time he helped Inter Miami to extend their lead to 3-0. Messi provided a delightful ball to Benjamin Cremaschi, who then flicked the ball to Taylor, who found the back of the net with his powerful shot .

Moreover, in the second half, after just eight minutes the Barca legend took the ball from his own half and later released the ball for Taylor, who slotted home his second goal of the night and extended Inter Miami’s lead to 4-0.

Gerardo Martino substituted Messi when there was only 15 minutes left for the match to end. Moreover, Busquets also came off in 78th minute.

Atlanta also had a chance to score a consolation goal after they were awarded a penalty. But, Messi’s compatriot Thiago Almada failed to score the penalty after Drew Callender’s amazing save.

Messi has now scored three goals and one assist in just 114 minutes of football for Inter Miami.